~Kaida Orion POV~
As the ritual begins, Biat chants words lost to time. Runes on the stone glow pale blue, and the ribbon and chain pulse.
I feel warmth in my chest....like deep heartbeat. A cold wind rattles the courtyard lanterns. A hush falls, and suddenly, the ribbon leaps off the slab, floating upward, spinning. It glows bright.
I catch it instinctively. "I feel her…"
Lupus places a hand on my arm. "Focus."
The chain and ribbon settle, still swirling with energy. Runes flash.
Biat halts chanting, and he bows. "I see a path...the cliff by the eastern waterfall."
At the decision point, a stake forms between us and Luous voice is firm:
"We must go tonight."
I glance at him, fear warring in me.
"Without sleep?"
He nods.
"Yes. But we ride."
My heart hammers, adrenaline sharp.
"Very well."
We gathered forces, and the guards prepare horses. Councilor Rachael and Morgan stand ready to lead the estate's defense. I step onto my horse; Lupus hands me the ribbon.
